The Battleship Island” (2017), directed by Ryoo Seung-wan, is a South Korean historical action drama set during World War II. The film follows a group of Koreans subjected to forced labor on Hashima Island, known as “Battleship Island,” under Japanese colonial rule. The narrative centers on their harrowing escape attempt from the island’s oppressive conditions.

Set in 1945, the film follows a group of Korean workers who are brought to Hashima Island under false pretenses, only to find themselves trapped in a brutal and dangerous labor camp. The plot centers around a group of men, including a band of resistance fighters, who plan an escape and attempt to survive the horrors imposed by their Japanese captors. Among them is a young girl and her father, who are desperately trying to make it out alive.

What sets The Battleship Island apart is its emotional depth and the incredible performances from its cast. Song Joong-ki and Hwang Jung-min deliver standout performances as part of a group of men who show both extraordinary courage and emotional vulnerability. So Ji-sub’s performance is also notable, adding another layer of intensity to the film.

The film’s pacing is tense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, especially during the action-packed escape sequences. But it’s not just about the action—The Battleship Island also delves deeply into the emotional and psychological toll of war and oppression. The cinematography is stunning, capturing both the bleakness of the island’s oppressive atmosphere and the fleeting moments of hope and humanity.The narrative of survival, resilience, and the fight for freedom against overwhelming odds is universal, and the film’s compelling storytelling ensures that these real-life events will never be forgotten.